Friday morning brought news that Police had arrested the San Jose Occupiers. All tents and supplies had been confiscated. Some have been released, while others are still in jail.
San Jose Mercury News
The department says the protesters were removed Friday around 3 a.m. due to trash buildup and signs of public urination and defecation on City Hall Plaza.
Another protester was accused of felony vandalism for allegedly scratching a police car.
The charges seem unfounded, as I have found the Occupier’s area to be one of the cleanest areas in our city. The Occupiers also knew arrest was a possibility and had been coached on how to react.
After work I answered their call to join the 4pm rally in support of the Occupiers and free speech. Upon arrival I found the crowd to be sparse, concerned and a little confused on what had happened and what our next move would be. The media was out in force, you know their motto, “If it bleeds, it leads.” I overheard one reporter asking people, “Are you in charge?...can I speak to someone in charge?"...I so wanted to say, "I'm in charge...so is that guy...and her...and them...even you can be in charge...if you join us.” She was finally directed to our spokesperson.
Quickly the crowd grew as people answered the call for people and families to join. Some brought new materials for posters (Suzanne you are awesome). Others brought new signs to better represent the current situation. Bail money was collected. I had to tell her to slow down, people were chasing her as we gathered our wallets to empty into the bail fund.
The Occupiers began to set up new tents. There was talk of moving the tents next to the newspaper stands located on the public sidewalk. A group of newspapers had previously sued the city to allow newsstands on the premise of "free speech".
The crowd got fired up with the return of our favorite 9 y.o. chant leader...
She quickly took her place leading the crowd...
A true inspiration...we support her, as she supports us...
I wish all Occupiers enjoyed our beautiful weather...
Favorite quote of the week,
"...occupiers want the country to change its moral focus."~ George Lakoff
If you have not seen this video...you should.
Marine Shamar Thomas...you speak for me.